Mapping the ageing workforce: Labour force participation among older adults in Swedish regions

Sebastian Hanika - Department of Human Geography

Population ageing

  • Population ageing:
    changes in the age structure of a population resulting an increase in the proportion of older adults

My research interest originates from on three observations: 

  • Population ageing is a challenge and not a catastrophe
  • Demographic intervention is a futile endeavour
  • Population ageing is a geographically diverse phenomenon

Drivers of population ageing

Population ageing in Sweden

Spatial variation in ageing

  • Population ageing is not equal across space
  • Here migration becomes a powerful driver
  • More rural areas have progressed further in population ageing

Ageing and labour markets

  • Labor markets are central

Research aims

  • Integrate demographic and geographic perspective on population ageing and its relation to the labour market dynamics.
  • Investigate the factors that contribute to spatial variations in the labour force participation of older workers

Research Questions 1 & 2

  • What are the demographic and socio-economic characteristics of older workers and how do they differ across regions?
  • What role does the composition and dynamics of local labour markets play in shaping labour force participation of older worker?

Research Questions 3 & 4

  • What is the impact of life course events on labour force participation and employment status during old age?
  • What are the migration patterns of older workers in the period leading up to their retirement, and how do these patterns influence their decisions regarding employment and retirement?